Posting Language
Title
Authorize negotiation and execution of a contract with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid to administer the Tenants’ Rights Assistance Program, for up to three years for a total contract amount not to exceed $900,000.
De
Lead Department
Housing Department.
Fiscal Note
Funding in the amount of $293,886 is available in the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Operating Budget of the Housing Department. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets.
Prior Council Action:
October 13, 2022- Council authorized a one-year contract with the Austin Tenants Council to fund and administer the Tenant’s Rights Assistance Program that expired September 30, 2023.
For More Information:
Rosie Truelove, Director, Housing Department (HSG) 512-974-3064; or Nefertitti Jackmon, Community Displacement Prevention Officer, Housing Department, 512-974-3196.
Additional Backup Information:
The previous contract with the Austin Tenants Council (ATC) to fund and administer the Tenants’ Rights Assistance Program expired on September 30, 2023. This new contract is needed to replace the expired contract.
The Tenants’ Rights Assistance Program provides tenants residing within Austin the following services: 1) counseling and technical assistance to low-income renters regarding tenant/landlord issues; and 2) identifying fair housing complaints that can be investigated and may assist in resolving, reducing, or minimizing discriminatory housing practices.
The ATC project is now owned and operated by the Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA). Under this contract, TRLA, through their ATC project, will provide services to at least 300 clients a year. The contract term will be from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2026.
Requested authorization amounts for this new contract were based on historical spend and departmental estimates of future needs.